Recap and Reflections on SBC 2022

 Church Family,  

Last week Cole and I participated in the annual meeting of Great Commission Baptists. The Southern Baptist Convention met in Anaheim, California, on June 12-15, 2022. I am sharing a few of the highlights and my reflections. If you are looking for more detail, here is Baptist Press's summary: SBC Wrap up

For the first time in over 25 years, the convention met in California. 8,100 messengers gathered for preaching and singing at the Pastor’s Conference, hearing reports from SBC entities, and conducting business. The days were long—starting at 8 AM and finishing after 10 PM each day.

The most noteworthy occurrence at the SBC is always the updates on our cooperative mission efforts through IMB, NAMB, and our six seminaries. We do other things, but these are the primary expressions of our cooperation. We commissioned 52 missionaries to serve among the nations through the IMB. One of whom will be joining the team we support in Africa. The current total is approximately 3,600 missionaries serving internationally.

Since 2010, NAMB has helped churches to start over 9,400 church plants. At our current rate of starting new churches, by 2030, one-third of the SBC churches will have been planted since 2010.

All six of our seminaries affirm the inspiration, authority, and inerrancy of the Bible. They are focused on developing church leaders who will fulfill the Great Commission. Those leading and teaching at our seminaries affirm The Baptist Faith and Message 2000. Several well-known evangelical seminaries in the US struggle to keep their doors open. Still, our seminaries are growing, well-funded, and strong.

The pastor’s conference was a particular highlight for me this year. Twelve pastors preached consecutively through Colossians. Al Jackson, who preached at Crestview this past April, delivered the closing sermon from Colossians 4, "No Insignificant Saints." He reminded pastors that there are no unimportant ministry locations. Every local church needs faithful shepherds. Additionally, Kem Jackson was honored at the Pastor's Wives Luncheon for her distinguished service alongside her husband.

The most noteworthy item of business was the overwhelming approval of the recommendations of the Sexual Abuse Task Force. The support of these recommendations is the first of many steps by the SBC to address abuse. This issue is not behind the convention, but it seems that we have turned a corner and are taking appropriate measures.

There were several officer elections. Bart Barber of Texas was elected president of the SBC over Tom Ascol of Florida (60/40). I liked that both brothers serve as pastors of regular, normative size churches. Both affirm the inspiration, authority, and inerrancy of the Bible and support the Baptist Faith & Message 2000. Barber is a well-known Baptist leader who ran on a platform of charity toward those who disagree, supporting the sexual abuse task force and encouraging unity across the SBC. Let’s pray that Barber serves our convention well.

Daniel Dickard of North Carolina was elected president of the 2023 pastor's conference over the well-known Voddie Baucham. Baucham is a good brother, preacher, and writer, yet he lives in Zambia, Africa, and is not a member of an SBC church. Therefore, inevitably most found it inappropriate for a non-Southern Baptist to lead the SBC pastor’s conference.

In quite a humorous moment, Rodolfo Diaz-Pons, a pastor of an eight-member church in California, nominated himself for Second Vice President with a rousing speech. He then qualified for a run-off by one vote. He ultimately was not elected to the post. That's the SBC for you!

For the second convention in a row, there was a motion to close the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission. For the second year, the messengers overwhelmingly defeated the motion. During the discussion, Richard Land, the long-time leader of the ERLC, spoke to the convention from the floor. He reminded the convention of the vast good done by the ERLC and that there will always be a few ERLC actions that will be unpopular in some circles. Such does not mean that the convention should shut down an entity. The vote by the messengers revealed their agreement.

Probably the most significant lingering issue relates to Saddleback Church (Rick Warren, pastor) and the issue of women pastors. Article six of the BF&M 2000 states, "The office of pastor is limited to men as qualified by Scripture." Saddleback has ordained women as associate pastors. Last year, a motion referred the issue to the credentials committee to investigate whether the church's practice is within the bounds of SBC cooperation. This year, the committee recommended asking the president to form a study committee about the issue of women pastors. After some discussion, with Albert Mohler and Rick Warren notably speaking from the floor, the committee rescinded the recommendation, which is therefore unresolved.

While no SBC churches have women serving as lead, senior pastors, some, like Saddleback, use the title for female associate ministers. However, as I see it, this is an unbiblical use of the title. To be clear, I am convinced that the Bible teaches that the office and function of a pastor, elder, bishop, or overseer are limited to qualified men (whether senior or associate). This conviction is why we do not assign the title "pastor" to anyone not serving as an elder in our church. Based on my observation in the room, most of the messengers believed that Saddleback's practice was unacceptable. If we had voted, I expect the convention would have dismissed Saddleback. This issue is unresolved, so I will be watching what transpires.

Resolutions were approved by the messengers supporting rural ministry, condemning the prosperity gospel, addressing the war in Ukraine, and several others. There was little controversy surrounding them. I appreciate that the resolutions committee brought to the floor statements around which the convention was united.

I always return home from the annual meeting encouraged by what we are doing as Great Commission Baptists. It is exciting to see how our mission efforts are making a difference. It is wonderful to renew friendships with fellow partners in ministry from around the country.

The SBC is not heaven, so things are not perfect. Some issues are of concern to me. I am concerned that the convention resolves the issue of women pastors in a way that honors the Bible and the convention’s statement of faith. I wish SBC churches were not preoccupied with pragmatism, technique, and numbers. Instead, I hope our churches will become more committed to faithful word-driven preaching, evangelism, and discipleship (as promoted by Juan Sanchez in his convention sermon!) I long to see stronger relationships between sister churches and their pastors. I want SBC politics and social media to be more Christ-like and less worldly. I fear that the Cooperative Program’s best days are in the past as a denominational funding mechanism. Yet, I rejoice in record offerings for International and North American missions (Lottie and Annie). I am bothered by personalities who generate heat by asserting that the SBC is becoming theologically liberal. I do not see liberal drift occurring across a denomination that so resolutely affirms the truth and sufficiency of the Bible at every turn. As you see, I have my concerns, but this is part of the nature of cooperation with a larger body of churches. Let us lean into our partnerships, attend conventions, and be a voice of influence. I agree with Albert Mohler:  "Southern Baptists may take a while, they may not take the most direct route, but they eventually get it right."

It was a long trip and several hard days. I enjoyed the time with Cole and am thankful for the blessing he is to our church. It was good to eat Indian food and catch a game at Dodgers Stadium the last night. I am thankful for our convention of Great Commission Baptists and glad Crestview plays a small yet not insignificant part in it.

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Sexual Abuse Task Force Report

Church Family,

At the 2021 Annual Meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention in Nashville, the convention formed the Sexual Abuse Task Force (SATF) to administer an independent investigation of the SBC Executive Committee (EC) over the last 20 years related to handling sexual abuse reports. The SATF was to oversee the investigation and publish its findings and recommendations one month before the 2022 Annual Meeting on June 14-15 in Anaheim, California.

Last week this report was published. FOLLOW THIS LINK FOR THE SATF STATEMENT AND GUIDEPOST SOLUTIONS FULL REPORT.

The Guidepost Solutions report is lengthy (288 pages, plus appendices). It relates allegations of abuse by EC members, mishandling of abuse allegations, mistreatment of abuse victims, patterns of intimidation of sexual abuse victims and advocates, and resistance to sexual abuse reform initiatives. It relates a situation in which a few key leaders in the EC protected the denomination at the expense of victims minimizing the crimes committed against them. The revelations contained in this report are sinful and disturbing.

The report contains a host of recommendations to the convention to help all convention entities and churches properly handle future abuse situations. When the convention meets in two weeks, responding to this report will begin.

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR OUR CHURCH?

First, this report should remind us of the seriousness of sin and temptation. Let each of us fight the deeds of the flesh. Paul teaches us: "For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live” (Rom 8:13). Only the gospel is the answer to our sinful nature.

Second, we should lament this situation, grieving that we live in a world where abuse still is a reality. We should mourn that our SBC leaders have acted unjustly. We should pray for the Lord to make all things right.

Third, we should recognize that abuse is sin - whether sexual, physical, verbal, or emotional - whether inflicted on a child or adult. The correct action is to act to protect the abused, not safeguard the abuser.

Fourth, our church leaders should receive training in responding to reports of abuse. Earlier this year, in a doctoral seminar, I completed training to equip pastors in this regard. This training is available free to any church leader or member: Becoming A Church that Cares Well for The Abused.

Fifth, we should send messengers to convention meetings (SBC, GBMB, FRBA) to stay abreast of proceeding and, when opportunities present themselves, be voices of influence. Cole Barnes and I will Crestview’s messengers to the Annual Meeting in Anaheim.

Finally, we should urge anyone in an abusive situation to seek help. Help is available:

• Contact local law enforcement (911)

• Childhelp National Child abuse hotline: 1800-4-A-Child or WHAT IS ABUSE?

• Georgia Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-33HAVEN, or IS THIS ABUSE?

The day is coming when abuse will no longer exist. Until Jesus returns and ushers in the fullness of his kingdom, we must be prepared for the reality of abuse.

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Controversy at the EC

Church Family,

I pray you are growing in the grace and knowledge of the Lord today!

I do not often write about the more extensive workings of Great Commission Baptists (SBC), but there have been issues in the news over the last few weeks that may have caught your attention and raised concern. You may be wondering, “What’s going on?”

Controversy at the EC

The first issue relates to the sexual abuse investigation of the Executive Committee (EC) ordered by the Convention this past summer in Nashville. The EC represents the interests of the Convention between annual meetings. Concerning accusations have surfaced this past year about the EC’s handling of sexual abuse cases. Messengers in Nashville approved a motion directing the EC to cooperate with an open investigation into its processing of such cases, which included a requirement to wave attorney-client privilege.

In its first meeting since the Nashville Convention, the EC voted in a split decision against following the Convention's motion in an unprecedented action. A majority of EC members wanted to pursue a model for the investigation that would avoid waiving attorney-client privilege. This decision set of a firestorm. A key issue at stake was whether a convention entity could thwart the expressed directive of the Convention. It is my understanding that no entity has explicitly defied a messenger-approved motion in this way. This vote was concerning to many, especially coming on the heels of the Nashville Convention, where several apparent efforts by the EC to expand its authority were voted down by messengers.

In the wake of the storm, the EC reconvened in several called sessions. Eventually, enough votes were swayed to change the decision and approve moving forward with the messenger’s motion. The sexual abuse investigation has started, and its findings will be made public before the 2022 annual meeting.

Resignations

The second issue surrounds the fallout at the EC from this decision. A handful of committee members have resigned. The attorneys who have represented the EC for decades gave notice that they will not continue due to the waiver of attorney-client privilege. Lastly, Ronnie Floyd, the executive committee president, resigned. In the wake of Nashville and the EC's change of decisions to follow the messenger's motion, which Floyd did not support, the resignation was not surprising. Floyd had served in this role for just over two years. The EC is beginning the search process for a new president.

What does all this mean?

I heard someone say recently, “Things are not as good as the annual meeting makes them out to be, nor are they as bad as they appear on social media.” This seems right. First, all should agree that it is good that the investigation into the EC’s handling of sexual abuse cases is moving forward. If missteps have been made in this area, shine the light and bring correction. Second, every faithful Great Commission Baptist church can celebrate that our mission efforts are going forward. We are a convention of tens of thousands of churches supporting thousands of missionaries worldwide, thousands of church planters in North America, and six biblically faithful seminaries. This dust-up around the EC and future actions of the committee need to be monitored, but the reasons we cooperate with other churches remain unchanged.

If you want to read further, I recommend Baptist Press’s coverage.

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Reflections on SBC 2021

This past week the annual meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention was held in Nashville. Cole and I were able to attend along with our wives. We had an enjoyable time together – but it was an exhausting 3-days!  Before sharing a few of my reflections, remember that nothing happening in Nashville this week is more important than what the Lord is doing through Crestview every week. The day-to-day advancement of the gospel is happening in our church and multitudes of other faithful local churches around the world. Be encouraged! If you want more details about the week, please read: SBC 2021 Annual Meeting Wrap-up.

Now for a few of my reflections on the week: 

We are Great Commission Baptists

The messengers at the SBC were unified around what is most important. This might not make the headlines and might not appear on social media. There is great unity in partnering among churches to obey the great commission. Monday night, we commissioned 64 international missionary families through the International Mission Board. We support almost 4,000 field personnel serving in many of the most unreached places on the planet. Through the North American Mission Board, 8,400 churches have been planted since 2010, almost 17% of all SBC churches. 54% of all Canadian Baptist churches have been started since 2010. The SBC family is broad, diverse, multi-ethnic, theologically sound, and driven by the commission. This is why we are seeing greater use of the official SBC moniker: Great Commission Baptists. It genuinely reflects who we are. 

J.D. Greear was a model of leadership

As presiding SBC President, the pastor of The Summit Church in NC did an expert job leading a very busy, complicated, and at times contentious convention. He was a model of leadership, grace, and consistent humor. His sermon on Tuesday morning was on point and should be read by all. He identifies the strengths of the SBC and diagnoses problems that exist in the convention as well.

Ed Litton elected SBC President

I estimate that each of the 4 candidates is a good, orthodox man and could have served well. Ed Litton, the pastor of Redemption Church in Saraland, AL, was elected president (usually a 2-year term). For those who are not familiar with SBC elections, it is common to have run-offs and for elections to be close. Let’s pray for Litton to lead well.

There are concerns with the SBC Executive Committee

There were several decisions made that reflected concerns with the SBC Executive Committee. Messengers regularly supported decisions to limit the expansion of EC authority. In an unprecedented move, messengers voted to have an independent investigation of the EC’s handling of sexual abuse cases. We should pray for the truth to be made known so that any concerns can be addressed.

Non-binding Resolutions Approved

Resolutions are non-binding statements made by the messengers of a convention. They are not binding on any SBC church. Resolutions were approved on Unity, the Hyde Amendment, the Equality Act, Abortion, and others. Resolution #2 on the Sufficiency of Scripture for Race and Reconciliation addressed concerns directly related to Critical Race Theory. The resolution condemned “any theory or worldview that denies that racism, oppression, or discrimination is rooted, ultimately, in anything other than sin.” It received almost unanimous support from the convention.

In another unprecedented move, there were motions made to rescind several resolutions made by past conventions (Birmingham Resolution #9 among others). These were ruled out of order because it is impossible to erase non-binding, historical statements made by past conventions.

After spending three days with our larger family of Great Commission Baptists, I believe we are unified around what is most important. There are voices of discontent and social media gives everyone a microphone. So, be discerning. I was encouraged that even divisive issues were handled wisely and with great grace.  I sat in the room and participated in all the business. It is phenomenal to see 15,000 people conduct a business meeting with decency and order. I was encouraged and proud of our convention.

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas

Summer Psalms & SBC Annual Meeting

“To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.” Psalm 25:1

This past week my family enjoyed a brief break together. We were able to escape to Tennessee for a few days of fun together.  These kinds of breaks are incredibly vital to me and my family.  I hope you will find time to do the same this summer at some point. I’m back in the office this week and looking forward to seeing you Wednesday and Sunday.

SUMMER PSALMS

This past Sunday Cole kicked off our new sermon series – Summer Psalms. Each week through August we will be studying a different psalm. For good reason, many consider Psalms their favorite portion of Scripture. Each one expresses God-glorifying, transparent perspective on the ups and downs of living by faith in close relationship with the Lord.  

You can make the most of this series by being aware of the specific psalm to be preached each Sunday. The preaching schedule is available on sermon cards in the worship center, and it can be found in the newsletter email each week. No one should arrive for gathered worship any week unaware of what is being preached that day. Read, reread, and reflect upon the psalm leading up to the Lord’s Day. Come with a mind and heart prepared to rejoice together as we worship through the text-driven preaching of God’s Word.  This week’s text is Psalm 25, “Follow the Lord’s Paths”.

SOUTHERN BAPTIST CONVENTION ANNUAL MEETING

Next week, June 14-16, is the annual meeting of the Southern Baptist Convention in Nashville, Tennessee. The meeting scheduled for Orlando last year was canceled due to COVID, so it has been two years since the SBC has convened. The SBC is made up of over 50,000 churches throughout the United States who share a common confession of faith and place a high priority on seeing the gospel advance in the world. Each summer these churches hold the world’s largest deliberative business meeting where messengers from local churches approve annual budgets, elect officers, and approve entity trustees (mission boards, seminaries, and agencies), hear reports, and authorize resolutions. Intermixed there is music, sermons, and a host of auxiliary gatherings. It is quite something to behold. I would encourage all church members - in particular church leaders – to make a personal goal to attending an SBC annual meeting at some point.

As a cooperating SBC church, it is my conviction that we have not only the privilege but also the responsibility to send messengers to participate. We have an obligation to supervise the use of our mission dollars. This year Cole and I and our wives will be attending. Please pray for this to be an encouraging time. Invariably I find myself encouraged in the Lord, better educated in our mission efforts around the world, and inspired by the fellowship we enjoy with like-minded churches across the country.

This meeting this year is shaping up to be one of consequence. Over 14,000 messengers are currently pre-registered, about double what is normal. The interest is due to several reasons: 1) Nashville is a popular and convenient location in the southeast, 2) it’s a SBC presidential election year with 4 announced candidates, and 3) controversial issues. One can expect to hear updates on how sexual abuse is being addressed in the SBC, social justice and critical race theory, and women preaching. While disputes and drama may make the headlines, THE most important thing that will take place next week is that we continue to fund and advancement one of the strongest, best-trained mission forces in the world. The Great Commission may not make the headlines – but it should. I hope it will. The best source of news next week related to the SBC can be found here: Baptist Press (National SBC News)

I ask for you to pray for the SBC next week. Pray that God is glorified, that believers will live in unity, that God’s Word will be loved and will drive every decision, and that the watching world will see Spirit-filled Christians model love, truth, and integrity.

For His Glory,

Pastor Thomas